A recent poll found that more than half of mothers felt they were not getting enough sleep.
500 women in total were included in the study, and 270 (54%) felt they were not getting adequate amounts of sleep at night. The percentage increases when looking at those mothers who also work a full time job outside of the home to 59% of mom's not getting enough shut eye.
The women were polled concerning reasons why they do not get enough sleep. Many stated that they often lay in bed at night worrying about the next day or what they did not get finished during the present day which delays them getting to sleep. This type of anxiousness at bedtime can be a symptom of insomnia.
Interestingly enough, most women stated they had not discussed the lack of sleep with their healthcare provider, nor had they ever considered taking a medication to help them get more sleep.
When the women were asked how they would be affected or changed by more sleep the most common responses included being happier or in a better mood and being a better parent.
Women who are not getting enough rest may be experiening higher than normal levels of stress which alters hormonal release including cortisol, which helps to regulate sleep cycles and sleep quality. It may be worth it to bring up this issue with their healthcare provider to help find a solution, that does not necessarily have to involve medications.
Many people can respond to a strict bedtime routine to help improve quality and quantity of sleep, they may just need the tools and the know-how to implement such a program.
Individuals who are more satisfied with their sleep do have a better, more upbeat attitude, respond to stressful situations better, and get more accomplished during their days.
Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on November 3, 2006 01:56 PM
